Grand Voyager Rim to River

Grand Voyager Rim to River packs three rides into one day at Grand Canyon West: a sightseeing plane from Papillon’s terminal in Boulder City, a helicopter down into the canyon and a pontoon boat on the Colorado River. The plane, a high-wing Vistaliner or a Cessna Caravan, takes about 35 minutes each way and passes Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

At the West Rim airport you switch to a helicopter for a 5 to 7 minute drop of about 4,000 feet to the canyon floor, then walk down to the river for a pontoon float of about a mile, some 15 minutes. Back on top, a motorcoach shuttle runs to Eagle Point, where the Skywalk is, and to Guano Point. No meal is included, but you can buy food or snacks at the rim.

Count about 7 to 8 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, 3½ to 4 of them at Grand Canyon West. Transport is offered from a limited list of Strip and Downtown hotels, 60 to 90 minutes before the flight, or you can drive to Boulder City yourself.

Everyone 18 and over needs an original REAL ID-compliant license or a passport; without one, Papillon refuses check-in and refunds no one in the booking.

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, sneakers or hiking boots: the ground at the river and the viewpoints is rocky and uneven. The walk down to the boat takes some effort and isn’t advised for anyone with moderate or severe physical limitations.

Bring a bottle of water and dress in layers; from October to mid-March, pack warm clothes.

Passengers of 300 pounds or more pay for an extra comfort seat at check-in. Children 2 to 11 have their own fare, and under-2s fly free on a lap.

Check in 45 minutes before flight time, or the booking is cancelled as a no-show. Changes are free until 72 hours before departure. Cancelling by then gets you a credit voucher for the full price, good for a year, not a refund; inside 72 hours, no changes or refunds. Reconfirm by phone a day or two ahead.